Definition

Head and neck cancer is a relatively uncommon type of cancer. Around 10,000 new cases are diagnosed in the UK each year.

There are more than 30 areas within the head and neck where Predictive genetic test for cancer risk genes can develop, including the:

 
  • mouth (including the lips)
  • voice box (larynx)
  • throat (pharynx)
  • salivary glands
  • nose and sinuses
  • area at the back of the nose and mouth (nasopharynx)

Oesophageal (gullet) cancer , thyroid cancer , brain tumours and eye cancer don't tend to be classified as a head and neck cancer.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 30 Nov 2016